If you’ve been hearing about this exciting health discovery, you’re probably wondering “what is this stuff? And what can it do for me?”
Coenzyme Q10 is a vitamin-like substance that occurs naturally in every cell of the human body. Science is discovering that CoQ10 benefits include everything from helping prevent heart attacks and high blood pressure to treating Parkinson’s disease, managing diabetes, increasing energy and stamina, boosting immunity, and even losing weight.
How does CoQ10 work?
CoQ10 is essential to the production of energy at the cellular level, and the organs that use the most energy (like the heart and liver) have the highest concentrations of it. The actual “work” it does takes place in a part of every cell called the mitochondria, and its job is to help transform fats and sugars into energy.
Extensive research has shown that adequate amounts of the coenzyme are necessary for healthy metabolism and organ function. Supplements are often prescribed to aid in recovery from heart surgery, and there is a mounting body of evidence that it can play a substantial part in preventing? heart disease as well as in the treatment and prevention of a number of age-related disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, macular degeneration, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Is ongoing research currently evaluating?
CoQ10 benefits in the treatment of migraines, asthma, breast and prostate cancer, and HIV/AIDS.
If it’s a natural part of every cell, why would I need a supplement?
The body’s production of CoQ10 decreases as we age. Normal aging can reduce levels in the heart by as much as 72%.
In addition, a group of frequently-prescribed drugs knows as statins (used to reduce LDL and cholesterol levels) also deplete? levels of it.
The side effects of the coenzyme are mild (nausea, diarrhea, and heartburn) and rarely reported, though? supplementation has been known to interfere with the action of some prescription drugs such as blood thinners and beta-blockers.
I’m healthy and I feel great. Do I still need CoQ10?
If you’re middle-aged or older, supplemental CoQ10 can be crucial to maintaining good health. While it has been shown to be an effective form of treatment for some disorders, the most dramatic research results have been in the area of prevention.
Not only is maintaining good?
levels a requisite for ongoing heart health throughout middle age and beyond, it is also believed that CoQ10 benefits are among the keys to the prevention of an assortment of age-related disorders including Alzheimer’s disease.
